New York Gov. Kathy Hochul says Jane Doe in Cornell case was ‘failed’ by the system

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said Friday she believes the former Cornell University student who alleges she was raped by fraternity members in 2024 was “failed by people and institutions with an obligation to protect her.”

“I will not allow anyone to sweep this case under the rug,” Hochul told reporters at a Friday morning news conference in New York City.

Hochul, reading from prepared remarks, confirmed that she had appointed New York Attorney General Letitia James to carry out a “fresh and thorough review” of all the facts in the case nearly two years after a district attorney declined to pursue criminal charges.

“We will review the facts, gather evidence, interview witnesses and, if warranted, pursue prosecutions,” said James, standing at a podium alongside the governor. “I know that you want answers. I do, too.”

Hochul said she believes Cornell University did not provide enough information about the accuser’s account of her alleged sexual assault at the Chi Phi fraternity in October 2024, and she faulted Tompkins County District Attorney Matthew Van Houten for not conducting a more comprehensive investigation.

“In what world does the district attorney not even interview her or anyone else involved, or even request the…

Original source: https://www.nbcnews.com/sports